2013 Ducati Hyperstrada

HERE'S proof of the fact that we live in a pumpkin-latte-and-caramel-macchiato world (i.e., there's a flavour for everyone, however obscene it might sound to an espresso drinker): the new Ducati Hyperstrada.

A crossover between the Hypermotard or a Multistrada, is it both or neither? Would a serious touring rider would want the relatively lower levels of long-distance comfort, range and wind protection, or would a Sunday backroad scratcher want those big saddlebags? No doubt the sales charts will soon give us the answers, but Ducati presumably feels that with the entire adventure bike market on the up, a rising tide will lift all boats. 

In the meantime, let's look at the machine itself. It's powered by the new water-cooled, 821cc 'Testastretta 11°' four-valve unit that's also seen in the 2013 Hypermotard, promising service intervals of 9,300 miles and valve check intervals of 18,600 miles. The engine's claimed peak output is 110 bhp and 76 lb-ft of torque, and it has three maps including a 75 bhp Urban Mode. The Ducati Safety Package includes eight-way traction control and ABS.

The 204 kg, trellis-framed Hyperstrada comes with panniers (side standard, top optional), touring-oriented suspension (fully adjustable at the rear), 20mm taller bars, a smallish windscreen and thicker seat.